Well, well, well. Firstly, how you guys doing? Secondly, have you been waiting long? Well, obviously so. Sorry for that. I actually neglected to inform you a few things; it actually took a friend reminding me that I kind left you guys hanging there. Well, there is good news and... I wouldn't call it bad news, but it depends on what you think.
So, I've started my rewrite(a month ago) and with real life issues and random updates of other fics, I've only managed three chapters. I can tell you that they are pretty long and will not be posted until the entire story is finished. That's the good news, I guess, for me anyway.
The other news is that I've considered what you guys wrote. Some of you really like this story the way it's going, and It's true, my rewrite is kind off taking a different path from this fic. So I've decided that even though I AM doing a rewrite which I can admit WILL be different, I'll continue this story too.
My writer's block is off. Actually, it left a while ago, hence my random updates and new stories.
Some of you wanted this fic to continue? Well, I'm giving what you want.
Please note that I'm in the process of writing my finals. So don't expect too much yet.
Anywho, battles anyone? If that's what you came for then here is the update: The conclusion to the Wave arc.
PS: Oh, and for Guest who keeps calling my work trash. Thank you; your negative "influence" just makes me want to write more!
Naruko had expected a lot of things from Naruto and Kushina's conversation. She'd expected them to talk about everything that needed to be talked about; she'd expected Naruto to yell and scream to his heart's content; she expected this moment to be the turning point between mother and son.
But...
It shouldn't be like this, should it?
They were all seated by a bench table outside Tazuna's home. Tsunami had made everyone breakfast. They all couldn't fight and protect the bridge builder on empty stomachs.
That wasn't the problem, however. The problem was her mother looked like a corpse, and Naruto had a scowl on his face.
Neither one of them said anything and everyone could sense the tension. Naruko mentally sulked. Things weren't resolved at all. In fact, things seemed much worse.
She wondered what they talked about. Most importantly, she wondered how bad things really were now.
"Uhm... Naruko?" Sakura said suddenly.
"Yeah?" Naruko answered.
"About this morning. I thought about what you said, and...uhm...I want to form a truce."
Naruko blinked at her, surprised. "Oh? Sure."
Most of the occupants were thinking the same thing. What did they talk about?
Sasuke looked on indifferently. He knew what happened between them, but decided not to voice anything out. It wasn't really any of his business, so he would at least give them that.
"Thanks," said Sakura.
Naruto didn't utter a retort. He only ate his food, wordlessly.
Kushina fared no better. She should have at least showed some surprised at seeing her daughter and Sakura conversing mutually, no venom, not even glares, but her eyes were vacant, absent to the world. She hadn't even made an effort to touch her food.
"Kaa-san?" Naruko called softly.
Kushina turned to her, waiting.
"... Never mind; I'll tell you later," Naruko put out. She was shocked and a little fearful with her mother's silence, but now was definitely not the time talk to her about it. What happened? Was her conversation with Naruto that bad? She never thought ill of her brother, but did he take it too far or something?
"Thanks again for the food, Tsunami-san," Kakashi said gratefully.
"It's a pleasure. You can't work without eating now, can you?"
"It won't be long now. Once the bridge is finished, we wouldn't have to worry too much about Gato and his gang anymore," Tazuna said brightly.
"And with our help, it will be done in no time, right Kushina-sama?"
"..."
"... Uh... Well, it will all be over soon," Kakashi said with an eye smile.
"... It's pointless. What difference can you guys make? It won't change a thing! What's the point of fighting against him?! You're just wasting your time!" Everyone looked to the voice, finally noticing another head at the table.
Inari.
He glared at all of them, challenging them to doubt his claim. Gato had them at his mercy. What would a few ninja change?
It was obvious that no one felt like retorting. They were more surprised that the kid had little faith at all. Silence was the factor for a while.
"... So, that's what you think? That when life is unfair, the first thing to do is give up?! Huh, you little brat?!" Naruto fumed, shocking everyone.
"You're gonna die. You're no match for Gato!"
Naruto stood up and approached Inari.
"Naruto," Kakashi warned, but Naruto had acted faster.
He grabbed Inari by the collar and brought him inches from his face.
"Nii-san," Naruko gasped.
"If that's the way you think, then you're always gonna live in fear! You're always gonna be pushed around, never having any freedom!"
"So what?!" Inari bit back. "It's better than risking our lives for something stupid!"
"Inari!" Tazuna yelled.
Naruto ignored him. "That means you're coward! You have no honour! Is that a life to live, knowing everyday that Gato might make victims out of you? Knowing everyday that you're in constant danger, because you do nothing?! Imagine Gato killing your mother, all because you refused to take a stand."
Everyone remain silent, shocked themselves with what they were hearing.
"Even if you're scared, you have to fight for what you believe in! You can't just sit around and hope for nothing!"
Inari continued to glare at him; it was obvious he was choosing to be stubborn.
"... I grew up in hell. People treated me like absolute garbage, all because I was different! I had something that was out of my control! People betrayed me, over and over again! I hated it! I hated how everyone just screwed with me and expected me to take it!"
Inari's eyes widened the more he heard Naruto's rant. Every person was staring in rapt interest. Tsunami could only look at the blonde in surprise.
Kushina couldn't bare to look at the scene; she turned her head, hair covering her eyes.
Naruto knew he shouldn't let too much be revealed, he didn't need pity, but he did need to make a point. "Do you think I gave up? Do you honestly think I allowed myself to mope around in despair? No! I couldn't! I had to do something!"
"That's why I'm going to be Hokage, because if I can't make change for the better, then no one else will! I'll make sure that people are treated equally, especially the ones who are different!" He brought Inari's face closer and snarled, "I'm going to be that change! No matter what anybody says, I won't stop fighting for what's right! So you can sit there and mope around if you want, or you can stand up for yourself and take back what belongs to your village! Even if you're scared, if something precious to you is worth fighting for then you fight for it!"
Naruto finally let Inari go.
"I'm going to be that change," Naruto repeated, more calmly, but still resolute.
Kushina stood and excused herself. She promptly started walking away.
"Kaa-sa-"
"Call me when it's time to go," was all she said, her emotionless voice leaving everyone in stunned silence.
Naruto still had his back to them. He made no move. He just stood there.
It was an awkward breakfast.
It was time to head to the bridge. Kushina had been adamant in accompanying Tazuna, claiming that even if she was hurt, she could still handle herself.
Kakshi had been reluctant in agreeing, but one glare from the redhead was all it took to change his tune.
So Tazuna left with Kushina, Naruto, Sakura and Sasuke. They decided that Naruko and Kakashi could look after Tsunami and Inari, just in case Gato felt like attacking and taking the family hostage.
Everyone walked in silence. Oh there was tension alright, so thick it would take the sharpest knife to cut through.
Tazuna had tried to keep the atmosphere upbeat, but failed miserably.
"Hey, dobe," Sasuke started.
"What?" Naruto grumbled.
"Heard we're going to be in other teams. I'd just like to say, as much of a loser you were, you weren't that bad to be around," Sasuke said, eyes closed in a thoughtful way.
"Uhh... Thanks, teme?" Naruto uncertanly replied, not sure if he had been complemented or insulted.
"That's right, you should be thanking Sasuke-kun. It's not everyday he gives out compliments." Sakura swooned.
Sasuke sighed. "It's not a compliment. It's just something a think."
"Oh," Sakura said.
Everyone stared at her.
"... What? Is there something on my face?" Sakura asked fearfully.
"Well, it's just...you're usually more persistent than that..." Sasuke didn't even know why he pointed that out.
"Really, I never noticed," Sakura said, seemingly surprised herself.
"Tazuna?" Kushina addressed.
"Yeah?" Tazuna answered.
"I want more information on this Gato character. I am aware that he essentially runs your current village, but I want details."
Geez, Tazuna thought, had Kushina always looked that scary?
"Like I told you before. The man is a menace. He's got us under his thumb with his gang. They rob from us, hurt us, and do whatever they please, whenever they please. Some of us are sick of it. Hence the bridge."
"That's all nice, but you didn't give me details on Gato."
"Oh, well, there isn't much to say. He's a short man who likes to hide behind his muscle. He would let his minions do his dirty work before even lifting a finger himself."
"How many gang members?"
"Hard to say, but a lot."
"That doesn't give me anything to go by. I want numbers."
"I-I.. I don't know."
"Tch, just great."
"Relax, compared to Zabuza, those guys are small fries."
"At least that's good to know."
As they got closer to the bridge, Kushina addressed her wards.
"Our objective is to watch over Tazuna and his workers until this bridge is finished. Today should mark the near end of our duties. If enemy nin arrive, follow my orders to the letter, understood?" Kushina queried, completely in her sensei persona.
They nodded at her, the seriousness of the situation not lost.
"Good."
As soon as they arrived at the bridge, Tazuna immediately set to work, ordering his workers on what to do and where to do it.
The Konoha shinobi looked on carefully, prepared for anything that might happen. After about an hour, however, the kids were quickly getting bored.
Naruto was getting agitated. It wasn't enough that there was awkward tension with his mother, but he was getting frustrated on waiting for a fight. Last time, he had been too angry to think straight, but now, it was fair game.
He didn't have to wait long.
A mist started to cover the unfinished bridge. At first, Kushina had been confused, but her senses as a jonin warned her of imminent danger.
She acted quickly, running to Tazuna, grappling the man, and shoving him to safetly - needles were in the place of the bridge builder's original position. Tazuna was lucky to be alive.
"Gah! Damn it, why at a time like this?! We're so close!" Tazuna yelled, and was promptly shoved out of the way of more needles by Kushina.
"Get as far away from the middle of the bridge as possible," Kushina commanded.
Tazuna followed, running as fast as he could to the edge.
Kushina was lucky the mist wasn't thick, it would make things more difficult if that was the case.
"Well, well, well, look what we have here?" said a silhouette, barely visible through the fog. He walked forward, revealing his bandaged face and gigantic sword.
"Zabuza Momochi," Kushina said.
"Kushina, it's a honour to see you again. Frankly, I thought my poison killed you."
"Miracles can happen," Kushina replied.
"I bet," Zabuza sarcastically retorted.
Kushina was ready for him this time. Even if she had a bad shoulder, she had plenty of jutsu in her arsenal to take on Zabuza of all people.
Her senses kicked in again and she jumped out of the way, barely missing needles that were aimed at her head.
How was it possible? Zabuza was in front of her! Unless...
She quickly looked to her side, noticing a woman in a hunter nin's mask.
"Hey, it's the hunter nin that took Zabuza," Naruto pointed out.
Kushina mentally cursed; it seemed Zabuza had more help. One missing nin was difficult to deal with on his own, but adding a mysterious hunter to the mix creating even worse possibilities.
"Look, lady, I'm only ordered to kill the old man. Just don't get involved," Zabuza warned.
"And we're here to protect this man, so walk away," Kushina countered. Her mind was racing with tactics of action. This was really bad; she didn't want the kids involved.
Zabuza shook his head. "Forget it then. I've warned you before and there is just no changing your mind. This time, I'm going to make sure I finish you off."
Kushina made sure she was at a perfect angle to watch both Zabuza and the masked nin. "Kids, protect Tazuna - that's an order!"
The Konoha squad had been expecting refusal from Naruto, once again, but were surprised when the blonde nodded and ran to the bridge builder. Sasuke and Sakura soon followed.
"Sorry, Kushina, but it isn't going to be that easy. Haku, deal with the bridge builder. I'll handle her."
The masked nin did nothing but what was told, swiftly dashing towards Tazuna.
Kushina cursed. She had been hoping he would focus everything on her, but she was mistaken.
Zabuza charged at her, sword ready to strike. He swung it at her. Kushina dodged, losing a couple of hairs.
Zabuza was still on her, swinging and slicing with the intent to kill. He followed her movements, trying to mimic her in order to get the kill.
Kushina was looking for an opening. She ignored the dull pain that shot through her injured shoulder. She would be fine; she could handle it.
"You think you would have learned your lesson from the last time we fought, but no; you're still back for more. You disappoint me," Zabuza taunted as he swung.
Kushina ducked, saw an opening and stuck, bringing her fist mere inches from the missing nin's chin, but he dodged at the last second.
"And it seems like I'm not the only one whose got it in it for you, take that blonde kid for example."
Kushina froze midstep, but Zabuza didn't press his advantage.
"Oh, so I am right. You must have done something pretty bad for him to resent you the way I've seen."
Kushina glared at him, but said nothing.
"And now look at you, constantly putting their lives in danger. What kind of a sensei does that, hmm?"
Kushina seemed more and more indecisive. It appeared that Zabuza hit a sore spot.
"... Maybe you want them to die."
Kushina's eyes widened before she fixed a hateful glare at the missing nin. "Bastard!"
She took out her own blade, hidden by the side of her hip. She took her standard fighting stance.
She couldn't see through Zabuza's mask, but she he was grinning. She prayed that the kids could hold on for as long as they could. She needed to finish this as quickly as possible.
"Damn it, here she comes!" Naruto said. He turned around and faced the oncoming Haku head on.
"Naruto, we have to protect Tazuna!" Sakura yelled.
"I AM protecting him. Cover him, Sakura. I'll hold her off."
"But-"
"Go, Sakura. We'll handle this."
Sakura stared at Sasuke, incredulous.
"Go!" Sasuke commanded.
Sakura squeaked and hurried to the bridge builder.
Naruto stared at Sasuke in bewilderment.
"Sasu-"
"You really didn't think I'd let you take all the glory, did you? Besides, you're too pathetic to handle her on your own."
"Tch, freaking teme!"
Sasuke smirked at him and then turned his attention to the fast approaching nin. "Get ready."
"I should be saying that to you," Naruto retorted, but complied.
When the masked nin was close enough, it was Sasuke who started.
"Katon: Karyu Endan!" He took in a breath and blew a stream of fire, aimed straight at the nin.
She jumped into the air, but Sasuke continued to trail after her. He almost hit her but she used substitution.
"What the, substitution?" Naruto said in shock.
"Behind you!" Sasuke shouted.
Naruto looked behind him. The nin looked to be attempting to puncture him with needles, but he dodged, with speeds that he never knew he had.
Sasuke gaped, albeit subtly, "What the hell, you weren't that fast before."
Naruto looked at his feet in awe. Even he didn't know where that had come from. He looked up and noticed that the masked nin was staring at him quite intently.
Sasuke took the distraction as the perfect opportunity to strike.
"Katon Ninpo: Hibashiri!" Fireballs shot out of his mouth and raced straight to the masked nin.
She outmaneuvered them easily, carefully changing her position so that each fireball missed it's mark.
Sasuke was starting to get frustrated. This woman was pissing him off. If he couldn't get her with jutsu, then he would stick to the old hand to hand combat.
Naruto had the same idea. He didn't even have many jutsu to begin with, and it was obvious shuriken and kunai would be wasted, so he charged at her.
"Dobe, stop!" Sasuke warned. What the hell was that idiot thinking?
The masked nin focused on him again, raising her hands in a defensive stance.
Naruto shot fist after fist, each bieng easily handled by the nin.
The nin shot a fist of her own when she saw an opening, but realised too late that she had been dooped.
Naruto ducked to avoid the fist; he put his hands on the floor and did a backflip, kicking the nin square in the face, hard.
The masked nin backpaddled, staggering just a little. Her face showed a minuscule crack.
Sasuke was definitely surprised. Naruto, the dobe, landed a blow? In fact, he actually outsmarted someone?
"Hey, come on! You want some more, I'm ready!" Naruto hollered, his face serious.
"... You have skills, I'll give you that. Both of you, however, are no match for me."
The nin slowly removed her mask.
Naruto could do nothing but stare in shock as the identity of the nin was revealed.
"Haku?!"
Kushina dodged another slash aimed at her side. She struck with her own blade but Zabuza blocked it with his sword. They separated and created distance between each other.
"You just don't know when to quit, do you? Now you have to make those kids suffer. You're not a sensei; you're a joke."
Kushina roared in anger and dashed at Zabuza. She swung her sword at different angles. Zabuza was able to counter every strike. Loud clinging sounds could be heard as the speeds of the jonin's attacks increased.
Kushina mentally grimaced, her damaged shoulder was beginning to throb painfully. She knew then that she was at a disadvantage. She was immensely surprised with the ferocity of Zabuza's swings. He struck so hard that she staggered backwards. This wasn't good; she was losing.
"W-What... What's going on?" Naruto asked, confusedly staring at an unmasked Haku.
"Hello, Naruto. I see you're doing well," Haku said.
"Hey, dobe, what's going on? You know her?"
"She helped me. She gave the medicine to treat Kushina-sensei."
So that's who it came from; Sasuke couldn't suppress a snort. Trust Naruto to get help from an enemy.
"That was then, but now, things are different. Stop trying to stop me."
"But why?!" Naruto cried. "Why are you doing this?!"
"I don't expect you to understand. Don't get in my way."
"No!" Naruto said firmly. "I won't let you hurt Tazuna!"
"As unfortunate as that sounds, you have given me no chose," Haku said seriously, widening her hands to show ten senbon needles.
"Sasuke, we've got to stop her."
"You're telling me..."
"Together!" Naruto charged with Sasuke in tow.
Naruto threw a few kunai, missing Haku completely. He cursed himself, he still had a lot to learn.
Sasuke mimicked his past actions, almost hitting their mark, but not good enough.
They attacked Haku with a barrage of punches, but Haku looked like she was handling them with practiced ease.
Sasuke took a senbon needle to create and opening.
"Naruto, now!"
"Haaaaa!" Naruto yelled, driving his fist into Haku's face - sending her flying away from them.
Haku hit the ground harshly. She struggled to get to her feet.
"Hey, Sasuke, you okay?" Naruto asked.
Sasuke grit his teeth. The senbon needle hurt like a bitch, but it would be a cold day in hell before he let the loser know that.
"Of course I'm okay, I'm an Uchiha."
Naruto rolled his eyes, "Whatever."
They turned their attention back to their enemy. Haku was standing again. Her face looked bruised, but the scowl plastered on her face spoke volumes of her anger.
She raised her hands, quickly throwing shuriken at the two boys. They both jumped aside.
"What's happening? I can't see clearly," Tazuna worriedly from his vantage point.
"I don't know," Sakura said worriedly, she hoped that things were going in their favour. She really didn't want to face a man who could chop her head off with little effort.
"Dobe, get after her!" Sasuke barked.
"What? We need to do this together!"
"We are, you idiot. You'll attack first and create an opening again. I'll work on a jutsu to finish her off."
Naruto seemed apprehensive only for a moment before nodding in determination. "Right!"
He charged at Haku again.
"You overestimate yourselves," Haku said, disappearing from the spot and reappearing behind Naruto. She dropped her head to his ear. "I'm faster than I led you to believe."
Naruto's eyes widened, but it was too late. He felt a fist connect with his head, sending him flying ahead. He hit his head on the ground. Staggering, he couldn't focus, his vision blurry. He could feel blood coming from his forehead, but it was too hard to concentrate on anything but the pain. His body fell on the ground again, unmoving.
"Damn it," Sasuke cursed. The situation was looking more grim each second.
Haku turned her attention to him. "I have been lenient, but I'm starting to lose my patience."
"What, you think beating up the dobe would scare me? We're not in the same level, so don't underestimate me," Sasuke said seriously.
Haku cocked her head to the side, curious. "You really think you have chance against me, don't you?"
"I'm of noble blood; I won't lose to you."
"Well then, we shall see."
Haku raised her hands again. She did a few hand signs before stating, "Makyo Hyosho."
Sasuke felt the ground started to tremble. He wasn't prepared to see ice slabs that looked like mirrors emerge from the ground. If only he had his sharingan; all of this would be so much easier to deal with.
Haku had disappeared into a mirror. Sasuke was shocked by the act, but he was even more shocked when Haku appeared on each mirror as if she was in all of them.
"In this prison, you have zero chance of winning," Haku said.
Sasuke looked at Naruto's unconscious form. Why did that idiot have to fail now?
"Looking at him won't safe you."
Sasuke looked at one of the mirrors and smirked. "Big mistake. Fire melts ice."
He did a few hand seals. "Katon: Karyu Endan!" He took in a deep breath and released as stream of fire aimed at one mirror. It hit it's mark.
Sasuke's smirk quickly turned into a surprised frown when he realised that the mirror hadn't melted; it looked like it hadn't even been touched.
"Don't bother. We're not working with normal laws in this realm. Plus, you're not strong enough," the Hakus said.
Sasuke grit his teeth in annoyance. He was going to try again but Haku was not done.
"In this place, I rule. I've had enough of these antics, it is time to finish this," the Hakus said. They all took out senbon needles.
Sasuke was ready to dodge, but was shocked when all mirror images threw the needles at incredible speeds. They hit him like bullets; he had no time to react and had to endure the onslaught.
Once Haku was satisfied with her work, she stopped. "I think that should be enough. Goodbye."
Sasuke struggle to remain standing. The pain in his body was indescribable. He didn't even realise that his Sharingan had awakened; he was too focused on not passing out. It was fruitless, however, as his body dropped to the ground. He lay down, littered with needles, motionless.
It was over...
...
... Breathing...
...Someone was breathing.
...It was strong, strong breath.
... So strong that the floor was rumbling?
Naruto's eyes shot open. At first, his vision was too blurry to see anything, but then he saw blue...water?
That's when he realised something - he couldn't breath.
His head shot up. He gulped numerous amounts of air. His intake was haggard, he felt like he almost drowned.
"Well, well, well, If it isn't the little brat I kicked out of here."
Naruto looked to the voice, and was promptly staring into two giant orbs of blood eyes, glaring at him.
He looked around, seeing the different pipes and the familiar sewer themed room.
His mindscape?
"What are you looking around for, you lose something, moron?" the Kyuubi's deep voice rumbled.
Naruto stared at the fox in surprise. How did he get here?
"Oh wait, maybe you came to bitch and moan on how unfair your life is. So what are you waiting for, bitch already and piss me off further."
Naruto frowned at the fox, evidently not liking what the fox was saying. He didn't retort though, something the Kyuubi didn't miss.
"Oh, you angry now," the fox sneered, "you wanna annoy me again?"
Naruto took a deep breath; he looked at the fox square in the eye. "I'm sorry."
That definitely wasn't what Kurama was expecting. The fox looked at him weirdly. "What?"
"I wanted to apologise for how I behaved the last time I was here. You were trying to help, I shouldn't have disrespected you..."
"Okay?" Kurama sounded confused. "That needle bitch must have really done a number on you if you're this calm and apologetic."
"Tch, shut up! I'm only doing this because it's the right thing to do! What the hell is your problem?!"
Kurama blinked. Suddenly there was a red flash and the cage was dark once again.
"What's my problem?" Kurama asked as she stepped close to the cage. "My problem is that I have weak, whiny vessel."
"Hey!" Naruto protested, but stopped himself. He almost forgot, his comrades were in danger.
"Oh, you finally realise it? I'm surprised you lasted as long as you did with someone like Senbon Girl."
Naruto gave her a look, "Really, Senbon Girl?"
"Hey, I'll name her however I want, kid."
"What's wrong with you. How many times must I tell you we're the same age!"
"... There you go, bitching again."
"Arg! Okay, I'm sorry! Could you tell me how to get out of here? I need to help my team."
"Let me be honest with you, Naruto. There is no possible way you can win."
"I'll find a way. Now, let me out!"
"Listen to me!" Kurama snarled, shocking Naruto. "Your abilities are weak! Right now, you're only a few seconds from being killed!"
"What am I supposed to do, just sit here and wait for something to happen?"
"No... I'll help you."
"..."
"..."
"... What do you mean "help" me?"
"In order for this to work. You'll need to give me temporary control over your body."
"Hell no!"
"You're not listening!"
"I know what you're after! You just wanna get free!"
"Freaking bastard. After everything I've done, do you really think that's my motive?"
"... I can't trust you, I'm sorry."
"For the love of god, your friends will die if you don't take my help and you're running out of time!"
"..."
"I don't want to die either, you know? If you die then I die! I don't want that!" She really sounded desperate.
"..."
"... Fine, if you let me help, I promise to train you in all I know!"
"... But you sai-"
"You stupid brat!" she screamed, livid. "Just accept my offer!"
"... Under one condition."
"What?!"
"This happens only once and I get control back anytime."
"That's one condition?!"
"Take it or-"
"Okay, okay!"
"Give me your word."
"Arg, freaking...I swear on my life as a Bijuu that I will honour your conditions," Kyuubi grumbled.
Naruto finally allowed a smile, thanking her for her training offer, and Kurama realised that she had just been played.
"You little shi-"
There was a bright flash.
Haku stared at the two bodies crumbled on the ground. They weren't dead yet, but the kunais she took out would change things.
"I'm sorry," she started, "this isn't how I wanted things to go, but I have no choice. I am Zabuza-sama's weapon and I cannot fail him. Forgive me for killing you."
Haku raised her kunai, taking aim at both boys. She froze, sensing something.
It was huge.
What kind of chakra was that? It was malicious...evil.
"No time to ponder," Haku said, face stiff with determination. "I must kill them then help Zabuza-sama."
"...Awww, you shouldn't have to worry your pretty little head about that. They're not dying today."
Haku was shocked in seeing Naruto stand up. However, that did not sound like Naruto. It did to some extent, but it was like there was a second voice. When the blonde stood fully, Haku was shocked to see red eyes staring at him instead of cerulean.
"Naruto" looked at the fallen Uchiha and tisked. "My goodness, needles all over. You did a good job, Senbon Girl."
That was definitely not Naruto. His voice was more feminine than usual, but Haku was not deterred.
"You're very resilient, Naruto-san, but this ends now." Haku fired the kunai, concentrating on a point that would produce fast death: the neck.
"Naruto" casual cocked "his" head to the side, the kunai easily whooshing past "him". "Oops, was that supposed to hit me?"
Haku gaped. That was her fastest throw, no one had ever dodged it before. This was bad. Whatever was in front of her wasn't human.
"Look at all these mirrors," Kurama said gleefully. "I really wish I could see what I look like instead this blonde moron... Yes, I said it... You got a problem with tha..? Oh shut up!"
"Naruto" seemed to be talking to himself, Haku observed. This just kept getting weirder and weirder. She had enough; she wanted answers.
"Who are you?!" She quarrelled.
Kurama turned her gaze on her. "Oh, me? Why, I'm the lovable, gullible idiot who loves to yell "Believe it!" all the time!"
"You won't escape my attacks a second time!"
Haku fired all her senbon needles at once, from all directions. It looked like they hit Naruto at first, but Haku suddenly noticed that Naruto seemed to be relaxed, too relaxed - as if he wasn't being attacked. She stopped attacking to asses her work.
None of her attacks even touched Naruto, they just floated around him.
Naruto observed one of the needles. "Hmm, pretty sharp," he sniffed, "and poison, no, paralysis? I commend you for an adequate effort."
Haku scowled. "I told you not to underestimate me!"
Naruto yawned. "I've grown tired of these mirrors. Time to take them down... I'd get out of there if I were you."
Haku continued to scowl.
Naruto shrugged. He stretched out a hand and fire instantly lit up. He had a little fire ball in his hand. All the senbon needles completely burned away.
Haku stared at the child in wary. Firstly, he didn't use any hand seals to summon that fire - which wasn't unheard of, but was a skill reserved for shinobi of legendary status. Secondly, she could actually feel the heat of the flame from inside the mirrors. That shouldn't even be possible.
"Let's see," Naruto started, childishly bouncing the fireball on his hand. His gaze fixed on a mirror. "That looks like a good place to start!"
Naruto threw the small ball. Haku expected it to hit the mirror and dissipate, but was shocked to the core when that small fireball incinerated the mirror in one go.
"One down," Naruto said, turning to look at another mirror, "more to go!"
Haku could only watch in shock as her most powerful jutsu was destroyed right in front of her eyes. It didn't take long for her to run out of mirror to use.
There was only one mirror left.
"You're pretty fast for a human, but it was kind of boring in the end. Are going to come out of there? I'm sure by now you can tell that I'm a bit...persuasive."
Haku knew she had no choice. If she didn't come out then she would die. It wasn't exactly something she felt like doing anytime soon. Zabuza-sama needed her.
She stepped out of the mirror, never taking her eyes off of whatever was in front of her. She didn't even know how it came to this. No one, as far is she knew, was supposed to possess such raw power. She honestly thought that this was a dream.
"Good, girl. Now here's how it's going to go. The boy doesn't want me to kill you, and since I'm under oath, I don't have much freedom. So guess what, today is your lucky day!"
Haku charged at her, using her immense speed to try and get one up Naruto.
Kurama rolled her eyes. "It may seem to some people that you're going fast, but to me, you're as slow as tortoise." To emphasise, she used her own speed, knocking Haku off her feet before she could blink.
Haku tried to stand up, but a hand on her head stopped her.
"Now, Senbon Girl, be good and stay there, kay?" was all Haku heard before she felt her eyes getting heavy and promptly passed out.
"Well, that was entertaining." Kurama stretched her limbs and then suddenly stopped. "Relax, what did I tell you about a Bijuu's word being law? You really need to learn to have more faith, kid... Yeah, I'll keep calling you are kid, because you ARE a kid... We are NOT the same age, douchebag! I'm older than you... Y-You bastard, stop calling me Baa-chan!"
Kurama huffed and pouted. "Fine, take your stupid body back. I can't continue to overwhelm you with my chakra or you'll burn alive anyway. Besides, this thing smells like freaking ramen! Gross!"
"Naruto's" eyes changed from red to blue. He hunched over, taking large gulps of breath. He felt really hot, too hot to breath.
Once he stabilised, he slowly rose to his feet. He felt really tired, like he ran more than a hundred times around Konoha. He looked around, seeing the mist surrounding him.
He heard steal clashing against steal. He looked further into the mist and saw Kushina still fighting Zabuza. Both looked worse for wear, but it appeared Kushina was on the losing end.
"You hear that, Kushina, nothing. Those kids a probably dead by now, and it's all your fault."
Kushina was finding it hard to breath. Her fight with Zabuza was going terrible. She was still suffering from the lingering affects the poison given to her. She had contemplated repeatedly on using her chakra chains, but they needed a lot of chakra to work, something she was definitely lacking in.
She struggled to hide the tears.
She starting to doubt herself.
She was starting to believe Zabuza.
She was a horrible sensei. Organising this team spelled disaster from the beginning, but she was more focused on being close to Naruto than anything else.
She was horrible. Nothing, no excuse could save her for what she did. She abandoned a child. No parent does that,ever.
She failed.
They were killed because of her.
It was her fault.
Her guard started to lower. She looked like she was starting to give up.
Zabuza saw her openings becoming more prominent. It seemed like the match was finally over. Before he could lay the finishing blow, someone stopped him.
"Kushina-sensei!"
Kushina's eyes widened. She turned to the voice. Her mentally sighed in relief when she saw her son.
"Don't listen to him! Are you just going to give after everything we've been through?! If that's the case, then what was they point of being our sensei?! What was the point of any of this?!"
Kushina stared at Naruto, breathless.
"If you give up now, then you don't deserve to be called my sensei!"
That's right. Even though it wasn't what she was looking, Naruto was still willing to have her around, as a sensei. Under the circumstances, that's a Kushina could get.
Even so, he was her family.
She had a husband, three beautiful children.
How could she give that up? She couldn't do that to them.
She looked back at her son. He was on his knees, breathing heavily.
"Naruto!" She called worriedly.
"Don't worry about me!" Naruto rebuked, fatigue waying him down. "Just show that guy not to mess with Konoha-nin!"
Kushina nodded her head and faced her enemy. "I'm surprised you didn't attack."
"Figured I'd let you have this moment before I killed you," Zabuza shrugged.
Kushina held her blade tightly. "Oh, I won't be dying today."
Zabuza chose that moment to attack with his blade. She countered herself. It went back and forth once again.
Clang! Clang!
They put their body weight into their attacks, bringing their faces inches apart. "Shit, you weren't this strong before!"
"Mainly because I have something to fight for!" Kushina said through gritted teeth; she roared and shoved Zabuza away from her.
"Damn, lady, why do you have to make things so difficult!" Zabuza bit out.
Kushina readied her attack.
Zabuza decided to increase his mist jutsu's potency. He would have, if it wasn't for the sudden clapping.
"Very well done, Zabuza!" Gato clapped. He and his thugs were not far from the battle.
"What are you doing here! I told you that I'll get my pay after I deal with Konoha."
"That's the thing, my good friend," Gato started with a wicked grin. "I decided to terminate that contract. Why have you here when I can use my entire force."
"What?" Zabuza said in shock. All that fighting, blood and bruises, were for nothing?
"You served your purpose, Zabuza. Now, you die," Gato said, his goons readily agreeing with him.
"Die, huh?" Zabuza murmured, looking at his bloodied body; he had been fighting for so long that he wasn't sure if he could take on an army or not, but he was pissed. "Kushina."
Kushina looked at him.
"My contract is over, so I got no qualms with you. I'm going to kill that bastard."
Kushina nodded, understanding his meaning.
"Since Haku isn't here, I can assume the kid's dead. I'll handle this alone."
"No!" Naruto said, "Haku's alive!"
"If she hasn't killed you now, then I guess she's just a defective weapon."
"How can you say that?!"
"That's how it works, kid. I can't something that's defective."
"She fought for you with everything she had! I'm sure sacrificed so much for you! I heard it myself. She didn't want to kill, but she was willing for you! After everything she's done, how can you just toss her away like garbage, you selfish bastard!"
But Zabuza never turned to Naruto; he kept his gaze on Gato. He started walking to the gang, sword in hand.
"I know we're enemies," he started, "but look after her. That's my last request."
Kushina knew he was talking to her. "I can only promise to do what I can."
Zabuza nodded. He held his sword tight and charged at the army. He knew they were too many to kill in his state, but he would kill as much as possible.
He fought, cutting down enemy after enemy - getting numerous cuts and gashes from enemies. He lost feeling in his good arm, so he threw his sword and killed another thug. He took a kunai in his teeth and continued to hack away at the bandits, until he finally cornered Gato.
The man started making promises, from riches to woman, but Zabuza was having none of it. He cut the man's throat with the last of his strength, sending the man over the cliff.
He stood there as he continued to bleed, not even the worried cries of his weapon could be heard by him.
He collapsed, slowly succumbing to his fate. His life flashed before his eyes, terrible memories mixed with good. The last thing he saw was Haku and his eyes seemed a little happier.
"Haku... Live," was the last words he uttered. Fortunately, the now conscious girl had be close enough to hear, and couldn't stop weeping.
The only things heard were the cries of sorrow.
"Naruto!"
Naruto looked tiredly to the voice.
He saw a blurry image of Inari with people.
"Inari?" He called weekly.
"We came to...help?" Inari trailed; he and is fellow villagers stared at the carnage in awe. A few ninja could kill so many people?
"You're brave after all," Naruto smiled, then his eyes closed and he passed out.
...
"Thank you again for all you did for our land," Tazuna said gratefully.
"It's our pleasure. I just hope next time we come here, they won't be any more fighting," Kakashi said with an eye smile.
"Me too, Kakashi-san. I'd like to thank your genin as well. I know I called you brats before, but you really came through for us, and you have my respect."
"Damn straight, and you better not forget it old man!" Naruto said, failing to stifle his grin.
A tick mark formed on Tazuna's head. "You little brat!"
Everyone laughed at their antics. Naruko was very happy. Whatever happened at the battle of the bridge seemed to have turned Naruto. He seemed a lot more nicer, friendlier, and louder. She didn't know what to make of it, but she hoped he stayed that way.
Kushina seemed to be better too. Sure, Naruko could still see sadness occasionally flash in her eyes, but this had been the proudest and happiest she had ever seen her mother ever since they came to Konoha.
"Well, guys," Kushina started, "I hope you realise that once we get back home. Some of you will be in different teams. So is there anyone you'd like?"
"Tch. It doesn't matter, as long as I get training...and Naruko is there," Sasuke literally threw the last statement out there, earning a glare from said girl.
"I want be with Sasuke... Because I know I'll learn more!" Sakura said.
Everyone rolled their eyes.
"I choose you, Kaa-san," Naruko said.
Kushina smiled at her daughter, but was soon thrown for a loop with what her son said.
"I choose Kushina-sensei."
Everyone just stared at him.
"What, I know she'll be fair, unlike some other people." Naruto shrugged his shoulders.
Kushina struggled to keep her composure. She complimented her! It wasn't much to go by, but it felt like a victory to her. She looked at the silent Haku.
"This isn't going to be easy, I know. Don't worry though, I'm sure Konoha will take you with open arms."
Haku nodded, but said nothing.
"I've been their, okay? I know what it's like. Let's get to know each other, that way, we won't be strangers."
"I'm sorry, but I can't just yet. I-I've lost someone dear to me..."
"Don't worry, Haku!" Naruko said brightly. "I'll be here for you if you need a friend!"
"I don't understand why you would be so accepting of me."
"Well," Kushina started, "If it wasn't for you, then I wouldn't be alive. I think it's fair that I repay the favour."
"Goodbye everyone. Come back anytime," Tsunami said.
Naruto walked up to Inari. He patted the boy's head.
"I'm sorry about what I said before. You're not a coward, You're a hero."
Inari shook his head. "No, you're the hero. If it wasn't for you, then wouldn't have had the courage to protect my mom when those bandits tried to take her hostage. Thanks."
"No prob, kid."
"Naruto, we're leaving now."
"Okay. I'll see you guys next time!"
"Come by sometime, okay!"
"We'll be sure to!"
The Konoha-nin started walking in the direction of home, with the addition of a new member.
Haku suddenly remembered something.
"Oh! Before I forget, just so we don't have any confusion in the future, I'm a boy."
"..."
"..."
"..."
"..."
"..."
"..."
"WHAT?!"
As the continued walking, bickering like idiots, Kushina too the opportunity to look back. She couldn't be anymore prouder even if she wanted to. She smiled in content, grateful she had the chance to see to the bridge completion and it's name: The Great Naruto Bridge.
Author's Notes: Will be edited and continued soon. After my final exams.
PS: Sorry about how some characters acted. I wrote this chapter half-asleep and didn't focus on characterisation. I was rushing just to complete the chapter before I fell asleep. Thanks for pointing it out. I will aim to fix it, especially Naruto.
Also, I know they are issues that I didn't deal with in this story. Actually, I wanted to use the next chapter for that.
Guys, I know this fic has problems, a lot of problems. I made it CLEAR last update. I know characters are inconsistent, especially on the extremes the story has dealt with problems, but honestly, the story is running itself now. Some stuff, I can't change anymore. That's why I'm doing the rewrite(to tackle the issue of abandonment more realistically).
If you hadn't noticed, I love to focus on fics that tackle pressing issues like neglect, betrayal, adultery, suicide, rape, and shows how characters overcome these challenges and find piece in themselves, no matter how hard it is.
The reason I write fics focusing on the mentioned subjects is because in more ways than one, I've experienced them, and I want people to read these things, because even though it's fanfiction, these stories are focused on real matters that I and others can relate to. This is NOT and excuse for how this story turned out. What I said now should not affect how you see this story. I DO NOT want pity. I'm only telling this so you know my motives.
Review honestly. Even though the truth hurts, I prefer honesty above all else. You have to tell me where to improve though, no sense in acting like an ass and not helping at all. If you love it, let me know. If you hate it, let me know and point out where this fic needs improving.
You like this story? Great! You don't like it? Well, it's okay, maybe you'll like the rewrite.
Thanks for your support, and thanks for reading.